Welcome to Indian Hill Master Class! This school year, we are using this annual series as a celebration to highlight the exceptional people who curate a feeling of HOME for our students, our families, and each other. This month, Interim Assistant Superintendent Whitney Buell shines the spotlight on our new Indian Hill Arts Conservatory through a Q&A with our new dance instructor Amy Harold Hiler and Arts and Activities Director Amy Clark.
Whitney Buell (WB): Thank you both for joining me for Master Class. Ms. Harold Hiler, let’s start with you. We feel so lucky to have you as a new member of our Brave Family! What brings you the most JOY from the class?
Amy Harold Hiler (AHH): Since beginning the school year as the new dance teacher, I have thoroughly enjoyed watching the high school students venture out of their comfort zone and challenge themselves to try something new with our dance class offering. Some of the students have never had any formal dance training or class experience, and yet they come to the class each time with open minds and hearts, trying everything that I throw their way. They have inspired me to do the same, and be brave enough to push beyond my own self-imposed limitations.
WB: That is fantastic! Being brave is what it is all about! Ms. Clark, tell us about the Indian Hill Arts Conservatory Dance Experience - what can our students and families expect?
Amy Clark: The Indian Hill Arts Conservatory dance experience is like nothing else you've experienced before! In the past several weeks, students at the high school and the elementary school have begun to work with Ms. Harold Hiler during FLEX time, with the Premieres choir, and during GO Time.
Students and families can anticipate a vibrant and enriching program designed to foster creativity, discipline, and a deep appreciation for the art of dance. Participants will engage with a variety of dance styles, taught by experienced instructors who are passionate about developing each dancer's potential.
Once created, our state-of-the-art facilities will provide the perfect environment for learning and growth, whether students are beginners or aspiring professionals. Performances and recitals, which we have not had at Indian Hill historically, will showcase their progress and talents, making it a rewarding experience for both students and their supportive families. This program not only cultivates technical skills but also encourages teamwork, confidence, and artistic expression in a welcoming community.
WB: Ms. Harold Hiler, specific to our dance program, where do you dream it will go?
AHH: In the short term, I'm looking forward to teaching a dance class that students can take for credit, and being able to invest substantial time exploring dance on a deeper level with them. Long term, I dream of being able to help develop proper dance studio space, creating after-school opportunities in dance, and producing a full dance recital performance. I also hope to collaborate with other departments to create meaningful, cross-disciplinary experiences for our students.
I'm thrilled that Indian Hill has chosen to incorporate dance as a choice for our students. Dance is a language that sees no barriers, therefore making it a universal language for people of all backgrounds to engage with. Dance can be used as a vessel for self-expression in a creative and personal way where words are not necessary, and I am hopeful that the inclusion of dance will allow students to discover another way to find their voice.
WB: Thank you both for sharing with us about this amazing new opportunity!
If any students or parents are interested in learning more about dance or our new Indian Hill Arts Conservatory, please reach out to Amy Clark directly at [email protected].